AmaZulu FC goalkeeper Olwethu Mzimela has opened up about the grueling reality of being a reserve shot-stopper at Usuthu, explaining what keeps him motivated despite the lack of game time over four seasons.
The 24-year-old has struggled to assert himself since his 2020 promotion from the Usuthu development side, managing only 12 appearances while competing with seasoned figures like former Bafana Bafana keeper Veli Mothwa and Ghana captain Richard Ofori.
This season, new arrival Darrel Johnson has swiftly claimed the number one jersey, limiting Mzimela to just two outings.
Reflecting on his lengthy spell on the sidelines in an interview with FARPost, Mzimela maintained an optimistic outlook, viewing the high-stakes competition as a crucial asset.
“I think gametime will come at the right time and it’s always good to have competition you know,” Mzimela said. “It’s always nice because you are pushing that person and he also push you, you know.”
THE RESERVE GOALKEEPER’S SECRET: MZIMELA ON STAYING MOTIVATED AT AMAZULU
Mzimela is not merely competing with seasoned campaigners; he is learning from them. Sharing the goalkeeping department is 32-year-old Ofori, a fixture in South African football since his golden era run with Maritzburg United and his trophy-lifting spell at Orlando Pirates. Ofori’s invaluable experience makes him an ideal mentor for his younger counterpart.
The support extends beyond the keepers. Usuthu boasts a wealth of high-calibre veterans, including CAF Champions League winner Bongani Zungu and 34-year-old current club top scorer Hendrick Ekstein.
As he navigates the most challenging period of a goalkeeper’s career—the consistent wait for minutes—Mzimela credits these experienced players for their unwavering support and gratitude.
“It’s always nice to be with the older teammates because the ones we have in our team motivate us,” Mzimela shared. “Some players would be like, ‘I will never play with kids’. But with them, they always try and motivate and push us every day.”
ARTHUR ZWANE’S INFLUENCE: MENTORSHIP BEYOND THE PITCH
Mzimela’s head coach, Arthur Zwane, adds another layer of crucial support. Zwane is renowned for his work developing younger talent, having notably mentored highly rated youngsters like Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Mduduzi Shabalala.
Mzimela further lauded the work of Zwane and his coaching staff, revealing that their involvement transcends tactical matters.
“We also have good coaches who understand the type of players that we are. Even if we are not playing, they come to us and tell us that we are doing well and we should wait for our chances, it’s going to come,” he concluded.
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